Learn the cost and length of a Notary Public commission in Vermont.
How much does it cost?
The state application filing fee is $30. The cost of your seal and optional journal will vary based on the vendor you choose.
The cost of commissioning can differ depending on whether you are a new or renewing Notary. Supply package prices vary among vendors. New Notaries may need more how-to assistance than experienced Notaries. Books, training and live expert assistance are often must-haves for most new Notaries.
Some vendors may package items with additional fees — processing fees for example. Training can be included in package prices for new Notaries, although the quality of education can vary. Some providers offer their own Notary courses while others do not have the on-staff expertise to develop and support educational content. Several vendors offer Notaries live question and answer support, and others are not able to offer such assistance.
How long does it take?
It can take two to four weeks to become commissioned as a Vermont Notary Public. This depends on your availability and the time the Office of Professional Regulation needs to process your application.
How long does a Vermont Notary commission last?
Vermont commissions Notaries for two years and the renewal period occurs in odd-numbered years.
Wondering if you qualify for a Notary commission in the Green Mountain State? Read on below.
Who can become a Notary?
Vermont Notary applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S.
- Be a resident of or an employee in Vermont
- Not be disqualified by law
What kind of training will I need?
Training is currently not required for Vermont Notaries with fewer than 2 years under their belt.
However, renewing Notaries must complete one hour of continuing education before applying to renew their commission.
Do I need to take an exam?
Yes, applicants are required to pass an exam based on the statutes, rules and ethics relevant to Notary practices.
What kind of supplies will I need?
Vermont Notaries are required to get an official stamp seal if they choose not to print or type their name and commission number on each notarial certificate. If used, the seal must be capable of being copied together with the record to which it is affixed or attached and include:
- Your name as it appears on your commission
- Your jurisdiction
When shopping for seal stamps, quality and durability can vary greatly among vendors. Stamps should not bleed during or after use, as this can cause county officials to reject documents due to smudging. A second seal can help you avoid downtime if your seal is ever misplaced, and an embosser can help add an additional layer of fraud prevention security.
While a Notary journal or stamp is not required by law, it is considered a best practice for Notaries to use a Notary record book. It is strongly recommended that you use a journal of notarial acts to keep a record of your notarizations, even though your state doesn't require it. When purchasing a journal, there are a few important features to which you must pay close attention. A journal with numbered pages and tamper-proof sewn construction allows Notaries to identify missing pages in their journals, which becomes extremely helpful if you're ever named in a lawsuit. Simple notebooks or glue-bound journals simply do not offer the same level of security.
Supplies are sold by most vendors in packages, which can sometimes provide savings. However, not all vendor packages are created equal — they can vary greatly in terms of quality and content. If you are a new Notary or renewing your commission, the types and quantity of notarizations can require different tools of the trade.
Do I need a bond or insurance?
No. A bond is not required for Vermont Notaries. However, many choose to purchase optional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policies to protect themselves from legal expenses. E&O insurance is not a requirement in Vermont.
Below are answers to the most common questions about Vermont Notaries.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The VT Secretary of State, Office of Professional Regulation, located in Montpelier, VT, issues Notary Public commissions.
Although Vermont does not require training, where can I get it?
You can find several reputable Notary Public training providers with a quick online search. It's important to note that the Office of Professional Regulation does not provide workshops or seminars, nor does it endorse any business that advertises Notary Public training. Since the Office doesn't have jurisdiction to take action regarding a business that offers Notary training, make sure you thoroughly review any company you plan to work with.
Can anyone help me become a Notary?
Yes. Several companies offer Notary training, supplies, insurance and assistance with the entire application process. Also, the Secretary of State's website has the application with submission details, if you want to get the process started on your own.
Where will I be able to notarize?
You will be able to notarize anywhere in the state of Vermont.
Who can I notarize for?
You can notarize for everyone, excluding yourself and your spouse. You cannot notarize your own signature or that of your spouse nor can you notarize documents you are named in or would benefit from. If you perform notarizations as part of your employment, your employer may limit the notarizations you perform during your work hours.
How much can VT Notaries charge for their services?
In 2019, Vermont repealed the fee schedule allowing Notaries to charge a reasonable fee for notarial acts. As a best practice, inform signers of your fees in advance to avoid any confusion.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
If you make any changes to your address or name, you must notify the office within 30 days of the change. You can do this at no charge by logging into your account on OPR's Online Licensing platform and updating your information there.
For name changes, you'll need to upload a copy of an acceptable name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree or other court documents supporting the name change) and a revised Oath of Office/Affirmation form that has your new legal name and signature.
What is the process to renew my Notary Public commission?
The process to renew is the same and must be completed before January 31 of odd years. The first renewal for all Notaries Public will be in January 2021.Continuing education is required for new Notaries. This is due on 1/31/23.
Renewing Notaries must complete 1 hour of continuing education. The National Notary Association offers a renewal course.
The proof of completion should include the name and date of the course, proof of attendance, and the number of continuing education credit hours awarded.
The Office of Professional Regulation will email you three courtesy renewal notices every two years. The first courtesy reminder will typically be sent six weeks prior to the deadline. A late penalty will be applied if you do not complete your renewal by midnight of the day your commission expires.
What do I need to know about remote online notarization in Vermont?